From a user's perspective, Windows Mobile 5.0 will be the first significant upgrade in years. Of the many improvements, here are five that should have a huge impact.
1. No more lost data
I am not sure who thought up the name "persistent storage," but whatever Microsoft calls it, I want it! It means that all user-installed software and data is stored in non-volatile flash memory, instead of internal RAM memory. From 5.0 on, if I forget to charge my device or am not able to plug it in for a few days, it won't matter—I won't loose my data or the programs I've installed. The same point applies to hard resets. I've had several novice user friends who quite naturally thought their Pocket PC saved data the same way their desktop PC did. They did not realize that they had to keep their Pocket PC charged to keep their data alive. They couldn't understand why they kept losing their data and installed software. With Windows Mobile 5.0 they don't have to worry about that anymore, and they'll no longer have to go through the hassle of restoring data and reinstalling programs.
Another related new feature, "image update," simplifies the process of upgrading your operating system. Often, HP, Dell and other manufacturers offer upgrades to the current operating system to fix bugs and add features. Previously, these upgrades required wiping out all the software and data on your system. With image update, the upgrade will be almost as painless as installing new software.
2. You can speak to your Pocket PC or Smartphone
Microsoft seems to be under-hyping the profound breakthrough in voice input technology that will be built into new Windows Mobile devices. The lack of hype is probably because years ago Apple over-promoted the handwriting recognition built into their Newton PDA, and users were disappointed with it. Fully developed voice recognition capability will play a major role in opening up all sorts of gadgets to the masses. Microsoft apparently also believes this because it has invested millions over the past ten years on voice recognition R&D. Full voice recognition functionality is still some years away, and will require more storage capacity and better software.
Microsoft has already introduced Voice Command, which current Windows Mobile users can install as a separate application. I find Voice Command especially useful when I have my hands full or am in a hurry. To find a phone number or play music, I just have to utter "Show Richard Hall" or "Play Mozart." Having this program built into all new Windows Mobile devices opens a new era in mobile computing. However, voice command is an excellent start.
3. They won't all look the same
From the start Microsoft had strict, not very flexible standards that manufacturers (OEMs) had to adhere to be able to call their device a Pocket PC. Consequently, Pocket PCs today are quite similar in look and functionality.
All Windows Mobile 5.0 devices will have a core feature set and be able to run the same or similar third party applications. However, Microsoft has strengthened and deepened the Windows Mobile 5.0 foundation, which means that OEMS will be able to differentiate their devices with unique shapes, orientations, and functionality.
OEMs will be able to create Windows Mobile devices for different markets. For example, we may see devices customized for e-mail, gaming, photo-taking, GPS, Web surfing, music, video, and so forth. This will make it easier for Microsoft and the OEMs to do live market research. Who really knew that the combination of cell phones and digital cameras would be such a hit? The new Windows Mobile operating system is so powerful and flexible that manufacturers can try all sorts of combinations both for specific markets such as health or real-estate and for the general consumer market.
4. Neat, useful, and fun new applications
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